Young Guns of MDNA, Wheeler

A west coast family man, President of Wheeler Machinery Sales, and walker to a furry dog named Elvis, Dan is a car loving, motorcycle riding, boar & bird hunting, football & little league coaching, father of 3 ranging in age from 3 to 11 and reports daily to the lovely Mrs. Gina Wheeler.

Mr. Wheeler is undoubtedly someone to keep an eye on with 20 years’ experience in machinery sales already and he’s got plenty of years ahead being just 40 years young.

His talents advanced at a young age while obtaining his BS in Engineering from California Polytechnic San Luis Obispo. Dan is also an AMEA Certified Equipment Appraiser and (ASA) American Society of Appraisers certified.

Dan came into the family business in the mid 90’s to help his dad out. Eventually he became a full-time salesman, selling a wide variety of machines ranging from fabrication to general machine tools. At his dad’s passing in January 2012, he purchased the company from his mom and sister. He is a third generation machinery dealer.

“Many years ago I asked my grandfather what led him into getting involved in the business and he said he met Milton himself on Pacific Blvd in Los Angeles and he use to polish his shoes.”

His grandfather got his start as a set-up man for Milton Wershaw Auctioneers – based out of Los Angeles, CA. He was 16 years old at the time. His grandfather eventually broke away and started Wheeler Machinery Co. on San Pedro St. in Los Angeles. Dan’s father worked for his grandfather, but would eventually go on his own, hence the name Wheeler Machinery Sales.

Wheeler Machinery Sales, founded by Dan’s father Crist Wheeler, opened its doors in 1969. For many years they were located on Santa Fe Ave. (Machinery Row) in Los Angeles, CA. Recently, their business moved into a newer more modern structure in Pomona, CA, approximately the same size as their facility in Los Angeles.

Dan says “We concentrate mostly on Fabrication Equipment and General Machine Tools, from small to very large.

“Our staff holds a lot of experience with the low man on the totem pole having minimum 10 years’ experience. We employ 4 full time staff members and we all participate in sales and repair. We have a great reputation and concentrate on quality and customer service.”

Dan is an active member within Machinery Dealers National Association and is passionate about the success and development of the used metalworking and capital equipment industry.

If you are interested in this incredible “Young Guns” sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to the MDNA office – and stay tuned as we introduce you to the new breed of MDNA members and future leaders of the industry – at this year’s Convention and throughout the coming year.